The Messiah Delivers Again

As most of you know, I am a sucker for the nice, heart-warming hockey stories. I feel that we pay hockey players (through our tickets, gear, etc.) to entertain us on the ice. That they give back to the community in any way is just icing on the cake. But it certainly does help endear the players to the fans: Adam Graves wasn't one of the the best hockey players, just one of the best human beings and that's why we love him in New York. Well, his old captain Mark Messier did a good thing himself last weekend. Thanks to the CBC's Bring Home the Stanley Cup contest Messier brought the Cup to Adam Bourque, a young man with a disability in PEI (click on the link for the guy's winning entry - it really is quite touching). While I am sure he was compensated for his participation, Mess certainly didn't need the money. He went so far as to tell the Canadian Press that “it’s an incredible experience for me. That’s what the Stanley Cup is really all about, when you see the number of people it touches.”

And it sounds like Mess showed how much he cared by making sure Adam had a good time. Of course, while they played a game of street hockey, Mess had to score a goal on the kid but if he wasn't so competitive, he wouldn't be Mark Messier.

It's a great story on the eve of the Stanley Cup Finals and yet more proof that hockey players are the classiest of all athletes. I love this sport.

 The Messiah Delivers Again: Lionel Messi's Unparalleled Football Legacy

In the realm of football, few names shine as brightly as Lionel Messi's. Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Messi's remarkable skills, consistency, and dedication to the sport have earned him a place in the hearts of fans worldwide. This article delves into the incredible career of Lionel Messi, explores his recent triumphs, and answers some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the football icon.

FAQ 1: Who Is Lionel Messi?

Lionel Messi, whose full name is Lionel Andrés Messi, was born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina. From an early age, it was evident that Messi possessed extraordinary football talent. He joined the youth team of his local club, Newell's Old Boys, at the age of eight, and by 13, he had moved to Barcelona, Spain, to join FC Barcelona's famed youth academy, La Masia.

FAQ 2: What Makes Lionel Messi So Special?

Several factors contribute to Messi's uniqueness as a footballer:

Exceptional Skill Set: Messi's dribbling ability, close ball control, and precise finishing are unmatched. His agility and balance on the field allow him to navigate through defenders with ease.

Consistency: Over the course of his career, Messi has maintained an astonishing level of performance. He has consistently been one of the top goal-scorers and assist-providers in the world.

Versatility: Messi is known for his adaptability. He can play as a forward, an attacking midfielder, or even a false nine, showcasing his versatility and football intelligence.

Work Ethic: Despite his immense talent, Messi is renowned for his strong work ethic and dedication to training. He continually seeks improvement, which has contributed to his longevity at the highest level.

FAQ 3: Messi's Success with FC Barcelona

Messi spent the majority of his career with FC Barcelona, where he achieved remarkable success. Some highlights of his tenure at the club include:

Goalscoring Records: Messi holds numerous records, including the most goals scored in a calendar year (91 in 2012) and the most goals in a single European club season (73 in 2011-2012).

Team Titles: With Barcelona, Messi won numerous domestic and international titles, including La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, and the FIFA Club World Cup.

Individual Awards: Messi has received the prestigious Ballon d'Or award multiple times, cementing his status as one of the world's best players.

FAQ 4: Messi's Move to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)

In August 2021, Messi's long-standing association with Barcelona came to an end due to financial constraints faced by the club. He subsequently signed with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on a two-year contract with the option for a third year. His move to PSG generated immense excitement and added star power to an already formidable team.

FAQ 5: Recent Achievements

Even as he transitions to a new club, Messi continues to excel:

Copa America Triumph: In July 2021, Messi led the Argentina national team to victory in the Copa America, his first major international trophy. He was named the tournament's best player.

Champions League Quest: Messi and PSG have their sights set on winning the UEFA Champions League, one of the few titles he has yet to claim.

Community Engagement: Beyond the pitch, Messi is involved in charitable work and has established the Leo Messi Foundation to support various causes, including education and healthcare.

Lionel Messi's journey from a young boy in Rosario to a global football phenomenon is a testament to his extraordinary talent, unwavering dedication, and insatiable hunger for success. His recent move to Paris Saint-Germain has injected fresh excitement into his career, and fans eagerly anticipate his continued brilliance on the field. As the Messi saga unfolds, one thing remains clear: The Messiah of football will continue to deliver moments of magic that captivate the world and inspire future generations of footballers.

Following Up: Hockey Blogs

Since my blog about the Hockey Night In Canada piece about blogging generated so much traffic and controversy, I thought I would follow up.

First off, for those of you that don't read the additional comments, I was called out by a fellow blogger for blasting the piece, saying "It sounds like a case of sour grapes. You were not chosen for the story so it must be bad." Its a valid conclusion but one totally offbase as I have had opportunities to be on television and have turned them down (face for radio, voice for the deaf ... thus I blog). But said blogger, from The Puck Stops Here, is also defending the CBC piece because he was in it. Some blogs, like his, regurgitate every hockey story and add their $0.02 and that's fine - I read plenty of them on a daily basis - but my point was the omission of team fan blogs from the piece. It spoke up the blogs that have MainStream Media (MSM) connections while tossing a few negative connotations towards the sites of diehard fans.

Rather than go over my individual responses, you can click on the first link at the top and reread them for yourself. Then head over to Tom Benjamin's page for his response to CBC's work. To cut to the chase, he sums things up so: "At best, we add to the existing coverage. At worst we keep the real media on their toes." And to add to that, I think that fan blogs like this one and this one and this one and even this one deserve mention when talking about the hockey blogosphere, and not with a negative connotation.

Why? Because basically we do the job of columnists better than the columnists themselves. Those MSM writers are beholden to their editors and the credentials they are given where we can call it as we see it. We help jumpstart those bar-room discussions and will call things how we see it. Does it mean that we have no journalistic integrity? Absolutely not. We still have to be correct, or we are called on it. Just look at the comments on my original piece where Taste_of_Flames pointed out that Heatley drove a Ferrari when he killed Dan Snyder, rather than a Porche. I was wrong, and owned up to my mistake. Henceforth I will be more cautious. When was the last time that you saw a MSM writer retract something incorrect? The only case I can think of recently is the one going on right now in Toronto, and that is only under duress of possible legal ramifications.

I think that blogging and the different forms that weblogs come in will certainly be a ongoing topic so I will just close this entry with this - CBC did a decent piece, but it looked like they suddenly discovered the internet despite it being 2007 and they didn't do a comprehensive news package. It omitted a major part of the story and then tossed negative opinions out there without allowing for rebuttal. If they are supposed to be an objective member of the MSM then that is simply not good journalism.

I hope they do better next time.

 Following Up: Hockey Blogs - A Deep Dive into the World of Hockey Blogging

Hockey, often referred to as "the coolest game on earth," has a dedicated and passionate following around the world. While watching games on TV or attending them in person is a great way to stay connected with the sport, many fans turn to hockey blogs to get an even deeper understanding of the game, its players, and its culture. In this article, we will explore the world of hockey blogs, their significance, the passionate community of hockey bloggers, and answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) about this niche but vibrant corner of the internet.

The Appeal of Hockey Blogs

Hockey blogs have become an integral part of the online sports community, offering a wealth of content and insights that cater to fans' diverse interests. Here's why they appeal to hockey enthusiasts:

1. In-Depth Analysis

Hockey blogs provide a platform for in-depth analysis of games, player performances, and team strategies. Bloggers often break down plays, tactics, and statistics, offering a deeper understanding of the sport.

2. Player Profiles

Fans can learn more about their favorite players and prospects through player profiles, which often include career histories, personal anecdotes, and interviews.

3. Unique Perspectives

Hockey blogs allow bloggers to express their unique perspectives, opinions, and fandom. This diversity of voices enriches the overall hockey conversation.

4. Niche Topics

Hockey blogs cover niche topics like equipment reviews, historical retrospectives, and even the culture surrounding the sport. This caters to fans with specific interests within the hockey world.

The Passionate Community of Hockey Bloggers

Hockey bloggers are driven by their love for the game and their desire to share their insights and opinions with fellow fans. This community is characterized by:

1. Fandom

Bloggers are often die-hard fans of their favorite teams, and their passion shines through in their writing. This shared enthusiasm creates a sense of camaraderie among readers.

2. Knowledge

Many hockey bloggers have an extensive knowledge of the sport, including its history, rules, and intricacies. They take pride in their expertise and strive to educate their audience.

3. Engagement

Hockey bloggers engage with their readers through comments, social media, and forums, fostering lively discussions and debates about the sport.

4. Independence

Hockey bloggers often have the freedom to express their unfiltered opinions, which can be refreshing in a media landscape dominated by mainstream narratives.

FAQs: Unveiling the World of Hockey Blogging

1. How can I find quality hockey blogs to follow?

You can find quality hockey blogs by conducting online searches, exploring social media, or asking fellow fans for recommendations. There are also blog directories and forums dedicated to sports blogging.

2. Are hockey blogs just for fans, or can they benefit players and coaches too?

Hockey blogs are primarily geared toward fans, but they can also provide valuable insights for players and coaches. Analytical blogs, in particular, break down game strategies and player performances that can be informative for professionals.

3. Do hockey blogs have a role in promoting the sport and growing its fanbase?

Yes, hockey blogs play a role in promoting the sport by providing accessible and engaging content. They can help educate new fans, spark interest in the game, and connect people from different parts of the world.

4. Are there any legal or ethical considerations for hockey bloggers, such as copyright or privacy issues?

Hockey bloggers should be aware of copyright laws when using images or content from official sources. Respecting players' privacy and adhering to ethical guidelines in reporting are also important considerations.

5. Can anyone start a hockey blog, or do you need specific qualifications?

Anyone with a passion for hockey and the willingness to learn can start a hockey blog. While specific qualifications are not necessary, a deep knowledge of the sport and strong writing skills can enhance the quality of the blog.

Hockey blogs are more than just a digital destination for fans; they are a vibrant community of passionate enthusiasts who contribute to the depth and richness of the sport's culture. These blogs offer a platform for fans to connect, learn, and share their love for hockey in all its facets. As we follow up on the world of hockey blogs, we uncover a realm where fandom meets expertise, where diverse voices contribute to the conversation, and where the love for the game is celebrated and shared. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the sport, exploring the world of hockey blogs can be an enriching and immersive experience that enhances your appreciation for this beloved sport.

Analyzing The Hockey Blogosphere

So Hockey Night In Canada had a segment on hockey bloggers and, somehow, they left me out. I know, I know, its shocking! But seriously, in a five minute piece and three minute two-way (interview), they pretty much brushed over the entire segment of hockey bloggers who are, in fact, diehard fans. They concentrate on detailing the Caps bloggers and other writers who are either serious journalists or play them at night. If you want to concentrate on that portion of the blogosphere, fine, but don't ignore and even belittle the fan writers - which they did, and even did so sounding like old farts describing this whole new world on that there inter-web.



Is it any wonder that the talking heads appreciate the news-based blogs like Mirtle's and Kukla's? No, not at all as those blogs - which are affiliated with the Globe&Mail and NHL.com - are an easy, professional way they can get the biggest stories in the shortest time, which is great, but what about all of the good writers who are out-and-out fans? I think that they gave them (us) a very bad name, saying how they have no bosses and, thus, no ethics. They briefly mentioned the Isles blog box but essentially berated it because it allows bloggers who wear team jerseys. Those bloggers aren't there as journalists trying to sell newspapers! They are hardcore fans who have a passion for their team and want to share that passion. Most do not pass themselves off as Edward R. Murrow, they speak from the heart. What's wrong with that?

I'll answer: Not a damn thing!

Grantland Rice, one of the most respected and well known sports writers of all time (the Notre Dame 'Four Horseman' guy), had to have been a fanatical sports fan to write such lucid, passionate pieces. Professional writers today are so wrapped up in keeping their underpaying jobs and alleged ethics that most game stories are droll and boring (is it any wonder the newspaper is a dying medium?). Most columns are outrageous just for the sake of being outrageous and because the columnists are trying to outdo each other to get big money gigs yelling at other people on television. As for the aforementioned 'ethics', I have never, ever seen a sports writer turn down a free meal or even swag from a team. Ever. How is that ethical?

CBC asks Brian Pothier (was he the only player they could find??) about bloggers and he says they ask some inappropriate questions. So? They ask something that may get an answer that isn't the same boring cliche about losing that he spouted yesterday or the day before or the day before. If you don't like the question, don't answer it. Maybe if the bloggers wore the replica jersey that they paid for with their hard earned money, then he would be more willing to answer the questions, as he knew they helped pay his salary. Who knows?

As a fan blogger I don't make any illusions of impartiality. I am a diehard fan and I want my team to do well. I admittedly take it a bit far but at least I am honest (and colourful). Watching that feature, I thought it sounded like some bloggers (as long as they are well trained members of the media) are ok, but fan bloggers like myself are evil, illiterate fools who only write baseless lies and any 'respectable' journalist/player/whatever would do well to ignore.

What do you think?

 Analyzing The Hockey Blogosphere: Insights and FAQs

The world of hockey has evolved significantly over the years, and so has the way fans interact with the sport. While traditional media outlets like newspapers and television continue to cover hockey extensively, a new and dynamic space has emerged in recent years: the hockey blogosphere. This digital realm is inhabited by passionate fans, experts, and aspiring writers who share their thoughts, analysis, and opinions about the game. In this article, we'll delve into the hockey blogosphere, its evolution, significance, and some frequently asked questions about it.

Part I: The Hockey Blogosphere

The Evolution of Hockey Blogging

The term "blogosphere" refers to the interconnected community of blogs and bloggers on the internet. In the context of hockey, this digital realm began to take shape in the early 2000s. As technology made it easier for fans to share their thoughts online, hockey enthusiasts started creating blogs to discuss their favorite sport. These early blogs covered a wide range of topics, from game analysis and player profiles to team news and trade rumors.

Over time, the hockey blogosphere expanded and diversified. Some blogs focused on niche topics such as advanced statistics, hockey history, or prospect scouting, while others offered a platform for fans to express their opinions and engage in lively debates. As the number of hockey blogs grew, so did their influence within the hockey community.

The Significance of Hockey Blogging

The hockey blogosphere has become a valuable and influential component of the broader hockey media landscape. Here's why it matters:

Diverse Perspectives: Hockey blogs offer a wide range of perspectives that may not be found in traditional media. Bloggers can freely express their opinions, giving voice to passionate fans who often have unique insights into the game.

In-Depth Analysis: Many hockey bloggers provide in-depth analysis that goes beyond the surface-level coverage of mainstream media. They dive into advanced statistics, tactics, and player development, catering to fans hungry for a deeper understanding of the game.

Prospect and Minor League Coverage: The blogosphere has played a significant role in covering prospects, minor leagues, and international hockey. This coverage helps fans stay informed about the future stars of the game.

Community Building: Hockey blogs foster a sense of community among fans. Readers often engage in discussions through comments sections, forums, and social media, creating a virtual meeting place for fans to connect.

Breaking News and Rumors: While not all blogs focus on breaking news, some have become reputable sources for trade rumors and insider information, challenging the dominance of traditional sports journalism.

Challenges Faced by the Hockey Blogosphere

Despite its many strengths, the hockey blogosphere also faces challenges:

Credibility Issues: Not all blogs adhere to journalistic standards, leading to credibility concerns. Some fans may find it challenging to distinguish between well-researched analysis and unsubstantiated opinions.

Monetization: Many bloggers are passionate volunteers, but some struggle to monetize their content. Finding sustainable revenue models can be difficult.

Competition: With the proliferation of blogs, competition for readership and influence is fierce. It can be challenging for new blogs to gain recognition and readership.

Part II: Frequently Asked Questions About the Hockey Blogosphere

Let's address some common questions about the hockey blogosphere:

1. Are hockey blogs credible sources of information?

The credibility of hockey blogs varies. Some blogs are well-researched and adhere to journalistic standards, while others are opinion-based and may lack credibility. It's essential to consider the source and evaluate the evidence provided when reading hockey blogs. Established and respected blogs often have a track record of accurate reporting and analysis.

2. How can I find quality hockey blogs to follow?

There are several ways to discover quality hockey blogs:

Ask for recommendations from fellow hockey enthusiasts.

Explore blogrolls on established hockey blogs, which often link to other reputable sites.

Follow hashtags related to hockey on social media platforms like Twitter, where bloggers often share their work.

Use blog aggregator websites that compile and categorize hockey blogs.

3. Can I start my own hockey blog?

Absolutely! Starting a hockey blog can be a rewarding way to share your passion for the sport and connect with fellow fans. Here are some steps to get started:

Choose a niche or focus for your blog.

Select a blogging platform (e.g., WordPress, Blogger) and set up your blog.

Create high-quality content that provides value to readers.

Promote your blog through social media and engage with your audience.

Be patient and persistent; building a readership takes time.

4. Do hockey bloggers make money from their blogs?

Some hockey bloggers do monetize their blogs, but it's not always easy. Common monetization methods include:

Displaying ads on your blog.

Affiliate marketing (earning a commission for promoting products or services).

Selling merchandise related to your blog's niche.

Seeking sponsorships or partnerships with hockey-related brands.

5. How can I engage with the hockey blogosphere community?

To engage with the hockey blogosphere community, consider these strategies:

Leave thoughtful comments on blog posts.

Participate in discussions on social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit.

Attend virtual or in-person events hosted by hockey bloggers.

Reach out to bloggers directly through email or social media to share your thoughts or ask questions.

The hockey blogosphere has evolved into a vibrant and influential part of the hockey media landscape. It offers fans diverse perspectives, in-depth analysis, and a sense of community. However, it also faces challenges related to credibility and monetization. By navigating the hockey blogosphere wisely and engaging with reputable blogs, fans can enhance their enjoyment of the sport while staying informed about the latest developments in the hockey world. Whether you're a reader, a blogger, or considering starting your own hockey blog, this digital realm has much to offer to hockey enthusiasts worldwide.

I Love Canada

The CBC said it will stream all of its 85 National Hockey League game telecasts this coming season for free at CBCSports.ca.

In addition to its "Hockey Night in Canada" telecasts, the public broadcaster for the first time will offer live and on-demand screening of NHL games via the Internet. The new service begins with the Sept. 29 matchup between the Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings, set to take place in London.

This is fantastic because Vs. decided not to pick up coverage of the UK games so American hockey fans (yes there are plenty of us) will be able to tune in ...


Now, someone has to work on a way we can watch the upcoming Canada/Russia Super Series and get to see just how good our boys Alexei Cherepanov and Artem Anisimov really are. The tournament for players under 20 begins Aug. 27 and will feature four games in Russia and four in Canada. Somehow none of our Canadian kids made the team but that is alright, less of a chance for injury. For Cherry and Double-A its good as they will finally get some exposure that they weren't able to get playing in the Motherland. And hopefully, that will propel them to have good camps and the Rangers will at least give Double-A a shot to make the roster.